Today is Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Jains around the world! Many know the story of Diwali in the Hindu tradition: Rama and Sita returns home after defeating Ravana, and the people joyously light the kingdom with oil lamps. In the Jain tradition, Diwali marks Mahavira’s attainment of moksha in 527 BC. In the Sikh tradition, Diwali marks yet another kind of return: Bandi Chhor Divas, the Day of Liberation.
Here’s how the story was passed down to me. In 1619, the Mhogal Emperor Jahangir, hungry for power, imprisoned Guru Hargobind, our sixth Sikh guru (teacher). The people cried out for his release, and so the Emperor finally agreed to release the Guru. The Guru refused to leave unless he also freed the other fifty-two Hindu princes languishing in detention with him. The Emperor granted his wish but on one condition: only those who can hold on to the Guru’s clothes would be released. Surely, he wouldn’t lose too many prisoners that way. The Guru ordered the making of a special cloak with fifty-two tassels. As the Guru walked out of the gates of the prison, the fifty-two princes followed, each holding on to his own corner of the dazzling cloak. Guru Hargobind became known as Bandi-Chhor, Liberator. And when he returned home, the people lit candles to commemorate the return of all, Bandi Chhor Divas.
May we be released from prisons of all kinds, including the ones we build around ourselves. And when we find our way to the light, may we leave no one behind.
Happy Diwali!
Happy Bandi Chhor Divas!
Happy Diwali! Take care, happy Sunday! Have a great week.
ReplyDeleteThanks Eileen. I'm glad to know other traditions are celebrated, both around the world and here in the US.
Delete...a colorful time.
ReplyDeleteI call the winter festivals all light celebrations. When it's gone, we want it back!
DeleteCannot have too many celebrations.
ReplyDeleteIt is a beautiful celebration.
ReplyDeleteQuite an occasion.
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